Alberta’s government, as stated in the speech from the throne by Lt.-Gov. Salma Lakhani, plans to eliminate the landlocking of the oilsands by collaborating with partners to construct pipelines to B.C.’s northwest coast and Ontario. The speech, which marks the commencement of a new legislative session, underscores the success in persuading the rest of Canada about the significance of marketing Alberta’s natural resources. The government reiterates its commitment to doubling oil and gas production without specifying a timeline. It also praises Alberta’s diplomatic efforts in managing U.S. tariff threats.
The speech emphasizes that Alberta is prevailing in safeguarding its freedom and provincial rights, positioning the government’s actions as historically significant and crucial for Albertans’ prosperous future. It clarifies that Alberta’s pursuit of sovereignty does not imply separation but underscores the importance of striking a “grand bargain” with the federal government to restore economic autonomy.
Following a Liberal victory in the federal election in April, there has been a surge in separatist sentiments among some Albertans, leading to a citizen petition that could trigger a referendum on Alberta’s status within Canada. A pro-separatist group is currently advocating for a pro-separation referendum question to be approved by Elections Alberta.
Premier Danielle Smith introduced the International Agreements Act as the government’s first bill of the session. The act aims to affirm that international agreements signed by Ottawa will only have legal force in Alberta if ratified under provincial legislation. The bill expands on existing Alberta legislation concerning international trade and investment agreements to encompass all international agreements within Alberta’s jurisdiction.
Smith cited the need for this legislation in response to what she perceives as arbitrary timelines set by the federal government to meet climate targets, which she believes have negatively impacted Alberta’s economy. The government is also preparing a second bill to end a provincewide teacher strike, ordering approximately 51,000 teachers back to work.
The speech highlights the importance of diversifying Alberta’s economy to reduce dependence on oil and gas revenues. It envisions Alberta evolving into an AI superpower, bridging the realms of energy and computing power. The government also aims to strengthen provincial control over immigration, prioritizing economic migrants and Canadian citizens residing in Alberta.
Furthermore, Alberta is exploring new pipeline routes, including a potential oil pipeline to B.C.’s north coast and enhanced connectivity with Ontario through rail corridors. The government remains focused on existing initiatives such as investing in public infrastructure, law enforcement, healthcare restructuring, and educational facilities.
In response to the throne speech, opposition voices have criticized the government for what they perceive as a disconnect from reality, with concerns raised about the lack of emphasis on public services, healthcare, and teacher strikes. Alberta NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi and independent MLA Pete Guthrie have expressed reservations about the government’s legislative priorities, particularly the introduction of Bill 1.
